Friday, May 29, 2009

So, how do you break into a field where there are literally hundreds, if not thousands, of other men and women doing the same thing you're doing and trying to sell the same or similar items? As someone in that position myself, let me tell you it's not easy.

People like to buy from those who've already made a name for themselves, who have credentials in their field, or who have something so outstanding and original, no one else has anything like it. In the handmade jewelry field, with so many talented artisans in the world, that's rapidly becoming a rarity.

So, how do you get yourself to stand out from the crowd? A good question. Follow along with me as I learn the tips and tricks of starting a new business, in a field of thousands, during a major recession. This should be interesting. LOL

My first steps have been to start this blog, hoping that others will want to take a look and tell their friends. I've joined Etsy and Artfire where I can sell my items, but again, I'm lost amidst a myriad of other people doing the same thing. I'm on Facebook, where I can urge my friends and family to tell their friends to tell their friends, etc., about what I'm doing. I'm Tweeting on Twitter, joining Artisan forums, getting a quote on having my Website redesigned and learning about SEO, Search Engine Optimization.

Along with becoming as good as a professional photographer so my jewelry looks good, over the coming months I'll be talking about each of these issues. Highlighting what works, and what didn't. Featuring the forums, guilds and other places to network and above all, hoping to tell you how to do this all successfully and still have time to make the jewelry you obviously love to make and need to sell.

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Some designs just scream out for a name. something other than Byzantine links and rings. Simple. Appropriate. But it doesn't evoke what the piece really looks like. I've been calling once such piece I made Byzantine Scallops. Appropriate, but not evocative. At a recent show, a little girl came up to me and told me I made pretty Seahorse Bubbles. I looked at her in puzzlement until she pointed out the aforementioned earrings. So, do I keep the name Byzantine Scallops or rename them to Seahorse Bubbles? I'd love your opinion and here's a picture of them. Tell me what you think.

Friday, May 8, 2009

My eldest niece, Diana, is going to be the first of my three nieces to get married. And I am soooo excited. She and her sisters are the daughters of my heart. I love them more than life. So this Saturday will be the first day of Bridal shopping. My sympathies are going to be with the Bridal Consultant who will have to deal with my niece, Diana, a very strong-willed woman, her two sisters, two best friend, Auntie (me) and her Mom. I've been watching "Say Yes To the Dress", a Learning Channel reality show that takes place at Kleinfeld's in New York.

OMG, what these people go through to find the right dress. It's not just price, which can range from $1,000 to a whopping $24,000, it's finding what makes the bride "feel" it's the right one. They do say that the more people the bride brings to the consultation, the harder it is. After all.... everyone has an opinion and that could get the bride confused. But I have faith in my niece and our family and friends. Most of us pretty much agree on what will look good on her.Of course, as her Auntie, I've elected to create all of the jewelry for the Bride and the Wedding Party. Can't do anything until the dresses are chosen but I am getting so excited. Her colors are ivory, fuchsia and sage. For a January wedding in South Florida, it's perfect!!!

However, I could use some advice when making wedding jewelry as this will be a first for me. Hints, tips, inspiration, ideas, anything anyone can share will indeed, help me do the best I can for them. Last thing I want is for them to think my work is too cheap or unprofessional.

The closest I've come to anything bridal looking are these Pearl drops. But I think they'd be more for the Mother of the Bride than the young lady herself.

So, I'll do my best. But I could use some help from the experts and others with a good eye. :) Oh, did I tell you I'm all excited!?